Sikkim is the second smallest state of India. This landlocked state is least populated and has Gangtok as its capital. The world's third highest peak, Kanchenjunga, is located here. The state has twenty-eight mountain peaks, twenty-one glaciers, 227 high altitude lakes, five hot springs, and over 100 rivers and streams, including the famous Teesta, which is also called "lifeline of Sikkim". Sikkim's economy is mainly agrarian. It produce crops of rice, cardamom, oranges, apples and tea. It is also a mineral rich state and have mines of copper, dolomite, limestone, graphite, mica, iron, and coal. The state also has a vast tourism potential. There are many hotels and guest houses to cater to the flourishing tourism industry. Apart from the major contribution from tourism, the service sector also boasts of its real estate.


DARJEELING

Gifted to the British East India Company in 1817, Darjeeling is the hill station of West Bengal. This has been called the queen of hill-stations. Darjeeling is one of India's most famous hill resorts. It is 2134 m or 7000ft above sea level.


In 1835, Darjeeling was given to the East India Company by the King of Sikkim. It became a popular resort for the British who wanted to escape from the sweltering heat of the plains.
Tiger hills is the highest point in the area which provides the most exotic view of the Kanchenjunga peaks. From this place the other peaks of the Eastern Himalayas can be seen. On a clear day the sight of Mt. Everest is just enthralling.


The toy train coming from Siliguri is some thing which is liked by the elders and the children equally. The real fun in coming to Darjeeling is on the toy train. It takes six to seven hours to cover a distance of 82 kms and the slow speed gives you enough time to watch and appreciate the beauty which nature has provided it. This train passes through the Forests, waterfalls, over deep valleys and through the mountains and tunnels. The city is centered around the Mall which has a variety of shops, restaurants and hotels. Beautiful walk ways start from the Mall.


Between Darjeeling and Siliguri is the small town of Kurseong which has several educational institutions and churches. Trekking enthusiasts can check out Sandakphu and Phalut. From Sandakphu one can see four of the five highest mountain peaks in the world - Everest, Makalu, Lhotse and Kanchanjunga.